Are you ready for some rain?  The winter storms headed toward L.A. County this week could be the wettest in almost two years, according to the National Weather Service.  One thing our deputies always hear, especially during wet weather, is, “People in Southern California don’t know how to drive in the rain.”

Regardless of how much rain is expected to fall this week, now is great time to prepare for the wet weather.

Prepare Your Car for Rain

Wipers – Note the condition of your wipers because they are a major tool in the rainy season. Pay attention to the rubber, if found to be brittle or cracked, the rubber should be replaced immediately.  Effective Jan. 1, 2005, during daylight hours, if the windshield wipers of your vehicle are in use while you’re driving the vehicle, the headlamps of the vehicle must be on.

Headlamps – Make sure both are working correctly.  Use your low beam headlights at night and when it rains. Do not drive using only your parking lights.

Brakes and Tires – Arguably the most important components of any car.  Preparing your car for the rain also means checking your brakes and tires.

Don’t Just Prepare Your Vehicle — Prepare Yourselves, Too.

Many roads are the most slippery when it first starts to rain because oil and dust have not yet washed away. Slow down at the first sign of rain, drizzle, or snow on the road. Turn on your windshield wipers, low-beam headlights, and defroster.  SLOW DOWN AND INCREASE YOUR FOLLOWING DISTANCE!

If you are involved in a collision, you must stop. Someone could be injured and need your help. If you do not stop, you may be convicted of “hit and run” and could be severely punished.  Call 9-1-1 if anyone is hurt. Move your vehicle out of the traffic lane if no one is injured or killed.  Show your driver license, registration card, evidence of financial responsibility, and current address to the other driver or persons involved.

California needs the rain, especially with drought conditions. (Speaking of drought – Turn off your sprinklers until the middle of next week)

Our deputies want you to remember that light rain or the first rain of the season often leads to dangerous conditions in which to operate your vehicle, however if you are aware of your surroundings and anticipate events you can avoid getting involved in a collision and safely navigate the wet roadways.  It starts with being prepared, understanding your driving choices, and then making the right ones.

Deputy Joshua Dubin

jddubin@lasd.org

Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station

Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department

661-255-1121 EXT 5159

Twitter @SCVSheriff  http://www.twitter.com/scvsheriff

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